Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice for a quick weeknight meal. It’s a delightful blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors that comes together in just about 30 minutes. The combination of chickpeas and spinach makes it not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. I enjoy adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish, and I love how versatile it is—perfect as a centerpiece or a side dish. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household!

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:38:37.128Z

During one of my cooking experiments, I decided to combine spinach and chickpeas with rice, and the result was incredible. I aimed for a creamy texture, and I used coconut milk to achieve that. The balance of flavors between the earthy chickpeas and fresh spinach with a hint of garlic made this dish come alive. It felt like a warm hug on a plate!

One night, I added some saffron which elevated the dish to a whole new level. The fragrance was intoxicating and made a simple meal feel gourmet. I’ve learned that the key to making this dish perfect is to sauté the spinach just until wilted—this preserves its bright color and nutrients. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich in nutrients from spinach and chickpeas
Creamy texture from coconut milk that satisfies
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights

The Nutritional Powerhouse

Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice is not just a meal; it's a nutrient-rich powerhouse. Spinach brings a wealth of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and folate. These nutrients are essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health. Meanwhile, chickpeas enhance the dish with protein and fiber, making it filling and satisfying. This combo not only supports muscle health but also keeps you satiated longer, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking later.

Another important aspect is the use of coconut milk, which provides a creamy texture without the dairy. It's an excellent substitute for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet. The fat in coconut milk also helps your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins found in spinach, enhancing the overall nutritional impact of this dish. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that is both comforting and healthful.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Cooking the rice perfectly is crucial for the ideal texture in this dish. When simmering your basmati rice, ensure you maintain a gentle bubble rather than a rolling boil. This will help the rice cook evenly and prevent it from becoming mushy. After cooking, letting the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork can also enhance its fluffy texture, allowing steam to escape gradually without drying it out.

When sautéing the garlic, watch closely to prevent burning, as it can become bitter and affect the flavor of the entire dish. A medium heat should suffice, and sautéing until fragrant—typically around 30 seconds—is enough. If garlic starts to brown too quickly, consider lowering the heat. Feel free to use fresh spinach, as opposed to frozen, for a vibrant color and texture. The fresh spinach will wilt beautifully, retaining its bright green hue and adding a burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Chickpea Rice

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine the basmati rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

Sauté Garlic and Chickpeas

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chickpeas and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Add Spinach and Coconut Milk

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted. Then, pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and then mix it into the chickpea and spinach mixture. Squeeze lemon juice over the top, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving. It enhances the overall flavor beautifully!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain the dish's creamy texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to prevent drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and combat any clumping that might occur when cooled.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. This dish can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the texture may slightly change after freezing, it will still taste delicious and make for a quick meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish based on your preferences! You could substitute quinoa for basmati rice for a different texture and increased protein content, or use brown rice for added fiber. Incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can also add a colorful touch and additional nutrients. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast atop the finished dish can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy, making it another excellent option for vegans.

If you're not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute it with unsweetened almond milk or any nut milk you have on hand. However, be mindful that almond milk will produce a thinner consistency; you might want to add a touch of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up. Experimenting with different fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also provide a refreshing twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and chickpeas.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or can be served with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.